### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâgar**, represented by `{{H103}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to harvest** or **gather**. It appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. Though rare, its usage provides a potent metaphor for diligence, wisdom, and the consequences of obedience or disobedience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Proverbs, `{{H103}}` is used to illustrate the value of foresight and hard work. A wise son is one who **gathereth** in summer, contrasting with the son who sleeps during the harvest and brings shame [[Proverbs 10:5]]. This theme is reinforced through the example of the ant, which **gathereth** her food in the harvest, providing for her needs in advance [[Proverbs 6:8]]. In Deuteronomy, the inability to **gather** is presented as a curse for disobedience; the people are warned they will plant vineyards but will not be able to **gather** the grapes, for worms will eat them [[Deuteronomy 28:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of gathering:
* `{{H7105}}` **qâtsîyr** (harvest): This word refers to the time or the crop of the harvest. It is the critical period when gathering must occur, and sleeping during the **harvest** is a mark of shame [[Proverbs 10:5]].
* `{{H7019}}` **qayits** (summer): Defined as the harvest season, **summer** is presented as the opportune time for a wise son to gather his provisions [[Proverbs 10:5]].
* `{{H7919}}` **sâkal** (to be... circumspect and hence, intelligent): This term is directly linked to the act of gathering. The son who gathers is described as a **wise** son, indicating that preparation and diligence are acts of wisdom [[Proverbs 10:5]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word establishes the familial and moral context for gathering, where the actions of a **son** reflect wisdom or shame upon his family [[Proverbs 10:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H103}}` is centered on the principle of cause and effect in a moral universe.
* **Wisdom and Diligence:** Gathering is equated with wisdom and foresight. The ant is presented as a model of diligence, preparing its meat in the summer and gathering its food in the harvest [[Proverbs 6:8]]. This act of preparation is what defines a son as **wise** [[Proverbs 10:5]].
* **Blessing and Cursing:** The ability to **gather** the fruits of one's labor is a tangible sign of blessing. Conversely, planting a vineyard but being unable to **gather** the grapes because of destruction by worms is a specific curse for disobedience [[Deuteronomy 28:39]].
* **Moral Contrast:** The word is used to draw a sharp moral line between prudence and sloth. The one who **gathereth** is wise, while the one who sleeps during the harvest causes shame, highlighting that inaction during a critical time has significant consequences [[Proverbs 10:5]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H103}}` is used infrequently, it carries significant moral weight. The act of gathering is more than a simple agricultural task; it is a benchmark for wisdom, diligence, and character. It illustrates a core biblical principle: that provident action leads to blessing, while sloth and disobedience result in loss and shame.
TRV